ABB to Power China’s First Home-Built Cruise Ship

China’s Shanghai Waigaoqiao Shipbuilding Co. has contracted ABB to supply a power and propulsion package for the Asian country’s first domestically-built cruise ship.

The integrated package to be delivered will also include two Azipod steerable propulsion systems, according to ABB.

The 323-meter vessel will be capable of accommodating 5,000 passengers and is scheduled for delivery in 2023.

It will be part of a fleet of Chinese-built cruise ships operated by CSSC Carnival Cruise Shipping Limited, a joint venture between Carnival Corporation Plc and China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC). Shanghai Waigaoqiao is a wholly-owned subsidiary of CSSC.

In addition to Azipod systems, ABB will be delivering an electric power plant concept with electricity generators, main switchboards, distribution transformers and a propulsion control system for moving the Azipod units from the bridge.

“With this project, China is making great strides in cruise shipbuilding. We believe the key to success is in working closely with experienced stakeholders, and our selection of ABB is based on their unparalleled know-how of the cruise market, as well as capabilities and understanding of running projects locally in China,” Gang Chen, General Manager of Shanghai Waogaoqiao Shipbuilding Co., Ltd., said.